Algorithmic solutions to the problem of assessing the information impact on the electorate during election campaigns

Abstract

In the article, to solve the problem of assessing the information impact on the electorate during election campaigns, algorithmic solutions, including a mathematical model, a numerical scheme and algorithmic implementations, are formed. This assessment is reduced to determining the instantaneous values of the number of voters who prefer a candidate (party), taking into account: the positive or negative stochastic nature of the impact of mass media; interpersonal interaction; two-step assimilation of information; the presence of a variety of mass media, social groups and a list of candidates. The mathematical model is based on a generalized model of information confrontation in a structured society and, with the introduction of stochastic components in the intensity of agitation, it is reduced to solving the Fokker–Planck–Kolmogorov equation. For its study in the formulation of the Galerkin method, a numerical scheme is proposed and the order of its convergence is determined. In relation to the basic procedures of the numerical scheme, the features of the algorithmic implementation are clarified.

Keywords

• information impact assessment
• election campaign
• algorithmic solutions
• fokker–planck–kolmogorov equation
• gaussian basis functions
• convergence estimation
• triangulation of a multidimensional polyhedron
• numerical integration over a multidimensional simplex